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Dubai, UAE | January 15, 2026:​ The UAE’s property market continues to emerge as a powerful wealth-creation engine for global investors who approach real estate as a strategic asset class rather than a standalone purchase, according to GPG Global Real Estate, led by its Founder and CEO Mr. Chirag Goyal, widely known in the industry as the Multiplier of Real Estate.

Industry data and recent market trends indicate that investors who entered the UAE real estate market with informed advisory support over the past few years have significantly multiplied their wealth. Following a property boom that began in late 2021, residential prices surged by 20 to 40 percent, turning many early buyers into high-net-worth individuals as property valuations crossed the million-dollar threshold.Demand for ultra-prime properties has also accelerated sharply, with sales of homes priced above US$10 million reaching record levels, positioning Dubai among the world’s leading luxury real estate markets. Investors are increasingly shifting from short-term, opportunistic buying to strategic, long-term investments, driven by lifestyle considerations, legacy planning, and capital preservation. Prime areas such as Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Business Bay continue to attract sustained interest.“With global financial markets facing volatility, UAE real estate remains one of the most reliable avenues for wealth multiplication,” industry experts note. As a tangible asset class, completed properties in the UAE typically deliver 7 to 10 percent annual rental yields, among the highest globally. A Dh1 million property can generate Dh60,000 to Dh70,000 annually in rental income, while strategically structured investments can potentially deliver 30 to 50 percent annual capital returns, offering accelerated wealth creation.Speaking on the investment philosophy behind such performance, Mr. Chirag Goyal said,
“People often ask how investors consistently achieve exceptional returns. The answer is never luck. Wealth multiplication is the result of disciplined research, scarcity-driven selection, structured buying, and responsible exits. The market may call me the Multiplier of Real Estate, but that title comes with responsibility, not pride.”Dubai’s real estate sector closed 2025 with record-breaking transactions valued at Dh682.5 billion, marking five consecutive years of growth. According to Goyal, this performance reflects informed investor behaviour rather than speculation. “This growth is driven by understanding timing, supply dynamics, and long-term value. Our role is to guide investors with precision,” he said.He highlighted scarcity-based investing as a core principle, focusing on micro-markets with limited future supply. One such example is a commercial investment in Dubai Maritime City, where GPG Global Real Estate acquired an entire ground-floor retail strip at Dh4,000 per square foot, approximately 20 percent below market value. Comparable assets are now trading at Dh5,000 per square foot, with further upside expected upon completion.Another case cited was Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, where the firm invested in full sea-view townhouses — an asset class representing only three percent of total inventory on the island. Acquired at around Dh6 million, valuations are projected to reach Dh12–15 million by 2028, driven by supply constraints and destination-led growth.Structured deals also play a crucial role in wealth multiplication. “Direct negotiation with developers, bulk acquisitions, and customised payment plans significantly reduce risk,” Goyal explained. He pointed to a recently secured 20–80 payment plan, where investors pay 20 percent upfront and 80 percent at handover after three years, allowing capital appreciation and rental income to cover future obligations.Several investor case studies underscore this approach. One investor seeking a modest 20 percent annual return achieved three consecutive exits within 18 months, each delivering approximately 30 percent gains, nearly doubling the original capital. Other investors, including industry professionals, have also entrusted GPG Global Real Estate with their personal portfolios.As Dubai enters 2026, experts caution that oversupply in select off-plan segments and tightening liquidity may challenge uninformed buyers. However, disciplined investors focusing on Grade-A developers, near-handover assets, and smaller, liquid units are expected to continue benefiting from market opportunities.Concluding, Goyal advised new investors to remain patient and informed.“Avoid fear-driven decisions, oversized assets, and developers without proven delivery records. Wealth multiplication happens when you buy right, not when you buy fast — and when you are guided by the right advisor.”


Dubai, January 15, 2026:​ AGN Skyline Developers has officially broken ground on Casa Aura, its latest residential development in Dubai South, marking a significant construction milestone and advancing the project from concept to execution. The ground-breaking ceremony signals the commencement of on-site works and underscores strong momentum as the development enters its next phase.

Casa Aura is a five-storey, low-rise residential project designed specifically for family living, spanning a total built-up area of 2,586.97 square metres. The development features a thoughtfully curated selection of modern apartments that prioritise comfort, functionality, and long-term value. The project reflects AGN Skyline Developers’ family-led legacy, characterised by craftsmanship, innovation, and attention to detail, delivered in collaboration with experienced architects, designers, and engineering consultants.

The ceremony was attended by the company’s leadership team, project consultants, and key partners, highlighting confidence in the project’s vision, construction readiness, and delivery strategy. The milestone reinforces AGN Skyline Developers’ commitment to quality-driven development and timely execution.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Abdul Ghaffar, Managing Director and CEO of AGN Skyline Developers, said:
“The ground-breaking of Casa Aura marks the beginning of an exciting journey. Our focus has always been on building homes, not just houses—spaces where families can grow, connect, and thrive. Casa Aura reflects our long-term vision of creating thoughtfully planned communities that deliver lasting value for both homeowners and investors.”

Strategically located within Dubai South, one of Dubai’s largest master-planned districts spanning 145 square kilometres, Casa Aura benefits from excellent connectivity to major destinations, including Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, and Mall of the Emirates. The project also enjoys proximity to Jebel Ali Port, Palm Jebel Ali, and Expo City Dubai, positioning it within a rapidly evolving residential and economic hub.

Designed as a complete residential community, Casa Aura places strong emphasis on lifestyle and liveability. Amenities include a padel court, swimming pool, fully equipped gym, jogging track, basketball court, open-air cinema, lounge and BBQ areas, children’s play area, and secure parking with CCTV surveillance. A spacious lobby and high-speed elevators further enhance the resident experience.

The residences feature open-plan layouts, expansive balconies, premium European finishes, integrated smart home systems, and fully equipped kitchens with high-quality branded appliances. Spa-inspired bathrooms, serene bedrooms with ample natural light, and refined branded fittings throughout create a sophisticated yet practical living environment tailored for modern families.

From an investment standpoint, Casa Aura offers a structured 22-month post-booking payment plan, with instalments aligned to construction milestones and a final 40% payment upon completion. The project is positioned to deliver strong rental yields and long-term returns, supported by Dubai South’s expanding infrastructure, rising residential demand, and investor-friendly ecosystem, including 100% tax exemption and on-site visa and licensing services.

For end users, Casa Aura presents an opportunity to own a well-planned home in a future-focused district offering connectivity, convenience, and a community-oriented lifestyle. With construction now underway, the project moves confidently into its next phase, reinforcing AGN Skyline Developers’ vision of creating enduring homes and building lasting legacies.

Dubai , January 15, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai has signed a sponsorship agreement with​ Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), to be the Organising Partner of the Dubai​  International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) for the years 2027- 2029. The agreement
underscores the strength of the partnership between the two entities, and their joint commitment to support one of the most important intellectual and knowledge platforms that contribute to​ strengthening Dubai’s position as a global capital for project management and sustainable​ development. 
The agreement was signed by HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA; and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA; and​  entails that DEWA will be the Organising Partner of the Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) in its 12th, 13th, 14th editions.
This builds on the significant success achieved by the forum in the previous editions, which attracted more than 17,000 participants from approximately 50 countries, and featured over 400​ keynote sessions, workshops, filed visits, and specialised training programmes. These
achievements have established the forum as a leading global platform for knowledge exchange​ and building capacity in the project management field.​  HE Mattar Al Tayer has expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership with DEWA in
organising the forum, which is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence
of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. This partnership represents
strategic dimension in the forum’s journey, as an international platform for exchanging expertise
and shaping the future directions in delivering mega projects. Furthermore, this partnership
reflects the two entities’ shared belief in the importance of building an advanced knowledge
ecosystem for project management that supports Dubai’s vision for global leadership.
“Thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice
President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and the follow-up of His Highness
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has succeeded in developing a
global modal for planning and implementing strategic projects. Dubai’s infrastructure, transport,
energy, and urban development projects have become a global benchmark for efficiency,
sustainability and innovation. The forum plays a key role in transferring this leading experience
to the international community and enhancing the capabilities of corporates and individuals to
manage projects in accordance with the highest global standards,” HE Mattar Al Tayer said.
“The rapid transformation in AI, digitalisation and sustainability are reshaping the concepts of
project management worldwide. This makes the forum’ role more important than ever in
enabling leaders, decision-makers, and project managers to anticipate the future and adopt
innovative tools and technologies that enhance execution efficiency and achieve better
economic and social returns,” HE Mattar Al Tayer added.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer confirmed that DEWA’s participation as an Organising Partner
of the DIPMF reflects its commitment to supporting innovation and utilising artificial intelligence
(AI) in the fields of project management, energy and sustainable infrastructure, given their
pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency of planning and implementation and achieving optimal
utilisation of resources in line with the highest international standards. He noted that DIPMF
represents a significant platform for exchanging global expertise and strengthening
collaboration between the public and private sectors, in line with the UAE’s sustainable
development goals.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said: “Guided by the vision and directives of His Highness
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and
Ruler of Dubai, and through the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin
Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of
the UAE and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, Dubai has become a leading global
platform for hosting major events that enhance international dialogue on sustainability,
accelerate the transition to a green economy and facilitate the exchange of best practices in the
implementation and management of major projects, particularly in infrastructure and clean and
renewable energy, in which Dubai holds global leadership and consistently tops international
competitiveness indicators.”
“We are pleased to sign this partnership agreement with the Roads and Transport Authority to
support DIPMF, in line with the strategic partnership between DEWA and RTA. Our efforts are
integrated to realise the vision of the wise leadership to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading
platform for sharing expertise and showcasing innovative solutions in sustainability and major
project management. This contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,
enhancing quality of life and employing innovation and advanced technologies, especially AI,”
added HE Saeed Al Tayer.

Mumbai , January 15 , 2026 :Air India Express has introduced a limited-period promotional offer providing discounted excess baggage options for passengers travelling from select Middle Eastern countries to India, reinforcing its commitment to delivering enhanced value and convenience to international travellers.

The offer enables guests flying from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to pre-book 5 kg or 10 kg of additional check-in baggage at preferential rates. The promotion is valid for bookings made up to 31 January 2026, with travel permitted between 16 January and 10 March 2026, subject to availability.

Passengers can avail of the offer through the airline’s official website (www.airindiaexpress.com)mobile application, and all major booking platforms, during the booking process.

Under the scheme, excess baggage is available at the following rates:

  • BHD 0.2 from Bahrain
  • KWD 0.2 from Kuwait
  • OMR 0.2 from Oman
  • QAR 2 from Qatar
  • SAR 2 from Saudi Arabia
  • AED 2 from the UAE

The discounted baggage options can be purchased in 5 kg and 10 kg increments and apply across all fare categories, including Xpress Value, Xpress Lite, Xpress Flex, and Xpress Biz. The offer is applicable exclusively at the time of booking.

Air India Express currently offers a minimum check-in baggage allowance of 30 kg on these routes across fare types, except for Xpress Lite, the airline’s zero check-in baggage fare. With the addition of up to 10 kg under this promotion, passengers can now travel with up to 40 kg of check-in baggage, facilitating greater ease in carrying gifts, essentials, and personal belongings when travelling to India.

Dubai, January​ 14​ , 2026​ : Mohamed Ali Alabbar, Founder of Emaar and Noon and Chairman

of Eagle Hills, praised the large-scale and diverse projects delivered
by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) across​ infrastructure, public transport and other vital sectors, affirming that
these achievements have played a direct role in consolidating​  Dubai’s position as a global city and a leading economic, urban and commercial hub.
​Alabbar made this statement during an interview conducted with him by media personality Jamal Al Mulla on the sidelines of the 11th Dubai International Project Management Forum 2026, which took place on 14 and 15 January and is organised annually the RTA. The​ forum brings together wide participation from companies,​ institutions, experts, decision-makers and specialists, in addition to​ academic and scientific institutions from the UAE, the region and around the world.
Alabbar said, “Infrastructure and public transport projects, alongside​  the strategic initiatives delivered by the Roads and Transport​  Authority with high efficiency, have played a key role in ensuring the​  success of real estate and urban development projects, including​ those developed by Emaar.”
He added, “Dubai is a beautiful city and a global icon. What has further enhanced its beauty and distinction are the projects delivered​  by the RTA, which have kept pace with population growth and the​  remarkable urban expansion witnessed by the emirate.”

Speaking about project management at Emaar, Mohamed Ali​ Alabbar said, “The company places strong emphasis on responding
to market needs, based on its conviction that housing represents​  one of the most fundamental pillars of human and family life,
providing comfort, reassurance and security. Emaar is committed to​ 2​ achieving an integrated balance between construction projects,​ green spaces and essential services, given their direct impact on​ residents’ daily quality of life.” He continued, “As a leading real estate developer in the UAE and​ globally, we place the highest importance on corporate reputation.
We are committed to representing our beloved country abroad and reinforcing its esteemed standing by delivering real estate projects​ distinguished by innovative design, durability and comfort, alongside​  the premium post-completion services we provide.”
Alabbar said, “The success of real estate developers is founded on​  integrity, excellence and transparency in the execution and
management of projects, as well as on delivering credible developments that meet the needs of different segments of society,
both within the UAE and internationally. A successful real estate​ developer must also possess a comprehensive 

understanding of modern living requirements, a high level of artistic sensibility, and strong capabilities in managing relationships with government​ entities, partners, stakeholders and investors, given their pivotal role
in generating financial returns, supporting economic growth and​  contributing to higher gross domestic product.”

Dubai , January 14 , 2026 : Zoho Corporation, a global technology company, today announced the launch of its data centres in UAE in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The data centres form a part of AED 100 million investment in the UAE that the company had announced in 2023. The data centre will host solutions from Zoho Corporation’s two key brands: ManageEngine (enterprise IT management) and Zoho (cloud business solutions). 

“The opening of our data centres is part of our ongoing investment in the UAE, which remains one of the largest markets in the region for both ManageEngine and Zoho brands,” said Shailesh Davey, Co-founder and CEO, Zoho Corporation. “With this move, Zoho Corporation will be enabling businesses store their data locally, strengthening data sovereignty, and supporting National Cybersecurity Agenda. Furthermore, 100+ solutions across Zoho and ManageEngine, will enable businesses of all sizes, and government and semi-government organisations adopt cloud technology for digital transformation in nearly every area of operation, and help Dubai become a digital economy line with Dubai Vision 2030.”

The data centres have also received certification from CSP Security Standard Certificate by DESC (Dubai Electronic Security Center). This qualifies Zoho Corporation to serve government and semi-government entities in addition to local businesses. As part of this, the data centres are also compliant with: ISO 27001, ISO 22301,  ISO 27017 and CSA STAR Level 2 Certificate for data centres. In addition, the company’s Dubai office has received ISO 27001 certificate. 

Growth Momentum of Zoho

Zoho has grown by 38.7% in 2025 in UAE, and expanded its partner network by 29% in the same period. It has further increased its employee count by 35% last year to serve the needs of its increasing customer base, and expanded into a larger office. The key solutions driving Zoho’s growth are: Customer Experience platform (Zoho CRM, Desk and Zoho CRM Plus), Zoho Books (VAT-compliant and FTA-approved accounting software), Creator (low-code app development platform), Zoho Workplace (communication and collaboration platform), and Zoho One (all-in-one suite of 55+ products).

In the past five years, Zoho has invested AED 80 million on enabling over 7000 businesses in their digital transformation journey through various partnerships such as those with DET and Dubai Culture. In the past few years, Zoho has seen a steady upmarket growth in the country, 48% in 2025, led by its strong platform capabilities that allow enterprises achieve faster time to value and lowers their total cost of ownership.  

Growth Momentum of ManageEngine

ManageEngine has grown by 20% in 2025 in the UAE, led by its continued focus on the enterprise sector. The brand has strengthened its local presence, including through the partner network, to support the increasing adoption of its solutions across both private and government organizations. The key solutions driving the growth are: Endpoint Central (unified endpoint management), ServiceDesk Plus (unified service management) and Site24x7 (cloud-based observability platform).

In the recent years, growth in the UAE for ManageEngine has been particularly strong in BFSI, government and public sector, and manufacturing, fuelled by cloud adoption, which is growing at nearly 35% in the region for the brand’s cloud solutions. This trend reflects a broader shift toward cloud-first strategies, as organizations prioritise scalability, agility, and faster innovation.


​Dubai , januaryc14, 2026 :  Ike Nwankwo, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Project Management Institute (PMI), has identified artificial intelligence, sustainability and agile methodologies as critical future trends for ensuring the success of projects across industries.Speaking during a session titled “Future Trends in Project Management”, Nwankwo emphasized the growing need to integrate advanced artificial intelligence technologies and data analytics with flexible, agile approaches and sustainable practices. He noted that these elements are essential for organizations seeking long-term success in an increasingly dynamic and competitive global environment.

Nwankwo also stressed the importance of developing human capabilities, highlighting the need for individuals and project teams to acquire skills and competencies that enable them to adapt effectively to rapid changes in the labour market.

“We must adopt practices that focus on value rather than deliverables alone in managing and delivering projects,” he said. “This can be achieved through a deeper emphasis on project mechanics, effective governance, and the development of smart, automated operational frameworks that ensure sustainable success and excellence across all stages of planning, implementation and ongoing performance.”

He further highlighted cybersecurity and hybrid management models as emerging priorities in future project management. According to Nwankwo, responding effectively to change requires significant investment in human capital through modern management training, performance development, and a gradual shift from traditional management to strong leadership capabilities.

“Enhancing employee skills and progressing from management to leadership through innovative and practical training is no longer optional,” he added.

Nwankwo expressed his appreciation for participating in the Dubai International Project Management Forum, describing it as a leading global platform for the exchange of expertise, best practices and innovative models among project management professionals.

“The forum provides a valuable opportunity for dialogue on business opportunities available to companies and decision-makers, while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for hosting major international events and thought leadership forums,” he said.

The Dubai International Project Management Forum continues to attract industry leaders and experts from around the world, fostering discussions that shape the future of project management and organizational excellence

Sharjah , January 13 ,2026 : In the presence of H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the second edition of the UAE Libraries Forum opened on Tuesday at the Authority’s headquarters in Sharjah.

The forum, organised by the Emirates Library and Information Association, is themed “Libraries Between Artificial Intelligence and the Humanity of Knowledge”.

The two-day forum brings together a distinguished group of local and international experts in library and information science, aiming to strengthen the role of libraries in supporting culture and knowledge and to explore opportunities for digital transformation, innovation and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in library environments.

As part of the forum’s activities, Sheikha Bodour inaugurated the Manuscripts Exhibition, featuring a curated collection of rare manuscripts and historically significant books that reflect the depth of Arab and Islamic intellectual heritage. She also inaugurated the pavilions of participating entities, which showcase innovative projects and services in the libraries and information sector, enhancing cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Sheikha Bodour honoured partners and supporters whose initiatives have advanced the association’s mission and strengthened its institutional presence.

Dubai , January 13 , 2026 : DUBAI, 13th January, 2026 (WAM) — Dubai Police have issued a public warning about the growing misuse of artificial intelligence in forging official and unofficial documents, a tactic increasingly used to commit financial fraud and bypass the law.

The alert was issued by the Anti-Fraud Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, urging institutions, companies, and members of the public to remain vigilant and carefully verify any documents received via email or social media.

As part of Dubai Police’s ongoing #BewareofFraud campaign, the Anti-Fraud Centre stressed the importance of digital awareness across all segments of society. Fraudsters, the centre explained, are exploiting rapid technological advances, including AI tools, to produce forged documents that may appear professionally written and well formatted at first glance.

Despite their polished appearance, many forged documents contain warning signs that specialists can detect. These include inaccurate or inconsistent information, wording that differs from approved official templates, and the use of fake signatures or stamps.

Dubai Police advised the public not to rely solely on the appearance of documents. Verification should include checking the source, reviewing digital file details such as creation and modification dates, and confirming the presence of official reference numbers that can be traced.

The Anti-Fraud Centre emphasised that using artificial intelligence for document forgery is a criminal offence punishable by law. It also highlighted that strong digital awareness among the public remains the first line of defence against fraud.

Dubai Police called on anyone who suspects a fraud attempt to report it immediately through the Dubai Police smart app, by calling 901, or via the eCrime platform dedicated to reporting cybercrimes.

Dubai Police highlighted that UAE law imposes strict penalties on document forgery, whether official or unofficial. Under Article 252 of Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021 on Crimes and Penalties, forging an official document is punishable by temporary imprisonment for up to 10 years, while forging an unofficial document is punishable by imprisonment.

In addition, Article 253 stipulates that anyone who forges a copy of an official document and uses it, or knowingly uses a forged copy, faces temporary imprisonment for up to 5 years. If the forged copy relates to an unofficial document, the penalty is imprisonment.

With regard to electronic documents, Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes states that anyone who forges an electronic document belonging to a federal or local government entity, or a public authority or institution, is punishable by temporary imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED150,000 to AED750,000.

If the forgery involves electronic documents issued by entities other than those specified above, the penalty is imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED100,000 to AED300,000, or either of these penalties. The same penalties apply to anyone who knowingly uses a forged electronic document.

London, 13th January, 2026 : The United Arab Emirates has recorded the strongest long-term rise of any country on the Henley Passport Index, climbing an unprecedented 57 places over the past two decades to rank 5th globally in 2026.

According to the latest Henley Passport Index – which marks its 20th anniversary this year and is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – UAE passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations worldwide. This represents an exceptional increase of 149 destinations since 2006, the largest gain recorded by any country in the index’s history.

The UAE has consistently strengthened its passport power through sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic visa policy, and the expansion of bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

“The UAE’s rise on the Henley Passport Index is without parallel,” said Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the index. “It demonstrates how long-term vision, political stability, and proactive diplomacy can translate directly into tangible mobility benefits for citizens, and increasing soft power for the country.”

The UAE now ranks ahead of traditionally strong passports including New Zealand (6th), the United Kingdom and Australia (both 7th), Canada (8th), and the United States (10th). This achievement underscores the UAE’s emergence as a global leader in building constructive international relationships across regions, reflected directly in the breadth of visa-free access granted to its citizens.

Commenting on the ranking, Omar Obaid Al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “The record-breaking ascent of the UAE passport reflects our leadership’s forward-looking vision and unwavering commitment to openness, dialogue, and global cooperation. This achievement is the result of the tireless efforts of UAE diplomacy to establish strategic partnerships that elevate the nation’s standing on the international stage.

Al Shamsi added, “By expanding travel freedom, the UAE ensures that our citizens enjoy ever-greater opportunities across the world, while simultaneously fostering global growth and collaboration. The UAE’s journey stands as an inspiring example of how vision, engagement, and openness can translate into tangible benefits for both citizens and the wider international community.”

As international travel demand continues to grow – with IATA forecasting more than 5.2 billion airline passengers worldwide in 2026 – passport strength is becoming an increasingly critical enabler of economic and social participation and soft power.

“A record number of people are expected to travel in 2026. The unequivocal economic and social benefits generated by this travel grow as it becomes more accessible,” said Willie Walsh, Director-General of IATA. “As many governments look to more tightly secure their borders, technological advances such as digital ID and digital passports should not be overlooked by policymakers. Convenient travel and secure borders are possible.”

Exclusive research from Henley & Partners into the predictors of passport strength highlights the key structural factors that underpin a powerful passport – including reciprocity in visa policies, proactive foreign relations, economic status, and tourism-led openness. Countries that actively negotiate visa waivers and build cooperative ties tend to expand travel freedom for their citizens. The research also shows that political and economic stability, combined with a high degree of openness to foreign visitors and residents, correlates strongly with sustained gains in passport power – a dynamic the UAE demonstrates in exemplary fashion.

“Passport strength is not accidental – it is built by a clear vision and policy,” Dr. Kaelin added. “Our research shows that countries which invest in diplomatic credibility, reciprocal openness, and international cooperation are rewarded with greater mobility for their citizens. Nations such as the UAE especially, through their steady and clear leadership, have prioritized tourism, trade, and global engagement as part of broader economic diversification strategies, helping drive successive improvements in visa-free access. The UAE exemplifies how a long-term, strategic approach to global engagement translates directly into passport power.”